16-O-methyl cafestol assay

The measurement of 16-O-methyl cafestol allows for the identification and quantification of this furanic diterpene specific to Robusta coffee. Unlike classic cafestol, present in both main coffee species, 16-O-methyl cafestol is considered an exclusive marker of Robusta and is not detected in Arabica coffee. Its analysis is therefore a powerful analytical tool for authenticating coffee varieties, verifying claims of botanical origin, and detecting fraud and adulteration in the coffee value chain.

Industrial challenges of 16-O-methyl cafestol dosage

In the coffee sector, the distinction between Robusta and Arabica is crucial for commercial value, quality control, transparency towards consumers, and compliance with specifications. The undeclared addition of Robusta to a product presented as 100% Arabica is a common form of fraud, difficult to detect without targeted analysis. 16-O-Methyl cafestol, as a stable and specific biomarker, makes it possible to:
• authenticate batches of whole bean, ground, or roasted coffee
• verify the actual composition of Arabica/Robusta blends
• detect intentional or accidental adulteration
• guarantee the traceability and compliance of premium products
• secure formulations using coffee extracts

This analysis is particularly useful for roasters, distributors, nutraceutical manufacturers, R&D laboratories and importers wishing to strengthen the reliability of their supplies.

Analytical methods: HPLC and GC-MS

The determination of 16-O-methyl cafestol relies on robust chromatographic methods allowing precise quantification, even in complex matrices such as roasted grains or concentrated extracts.

Two main techniques are used:
• HPLC for targeted and reproducible quantification
• GC-MS for fine separation and highly specific structural identification

Mass spectrometry allows for high sensitivity, making it possible to detect the marker even at low concentrations. The analysis is generally preceded by a selective extraction of lipophilic diterpenes, adapted to the matrix (green grains, roasted grains, soluble powder, hydroalcoholic or supercritical extracts).

These methods guarantee:
• reliable identification of the specific robusta marker
• precise quantification for original mixtures
• robust interpretation within an anti-fraud framework

Matrices analyzed and applications

The analysis is applicable to a wide variety of coffee-derived products: green beans, roasted beans, ground coffee, soluble coffee, liquid or dry extracts, nutraceutical formulations containing coffee, supplements or functional beverages.

Applications include:
• authentication of coffee varieties
• quality control of supplies
• detection of undeclared Robusta
• securing premium products
• R&D studies on the biochemical profiles of coffee

YesWeLab Support

YesWeLab collaborates with expert laboratories in analytical chromatography and natural product authentication. Most are certified or accredited according to ISO 17025 and COFRAC standards, guaranteeing the reliability and accuracy of the results. Our scientific team assists you in selecting the appropriate method, interpreting the data, and implementing regular controls to secure your supply chain.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can easily manage your analysis requests, track your samples, and access your results. Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting roasters, importers, distributors, and formulators in fraud detection and coffee authentication.

Other analyses from the YesWeLab catalogue

• Analysis of coffee polyphenols
• Authenticity and botanical origin of plant extracts